Vascular Malformations

Another type of birthmark is called a vascular malformation, which is present at birth and made up of clusters of arteries, veins, capillaries, or lymphatic vessels. Even though vascular malformations are congenital, and will grow slowly, proportionately, and steadily along with the child, some patients may not exhibit symptoms until adulthood. Depending on their location and size, vascular anomalies can cause severe disfigurement and even interfere with affected the area’s normal functions including pain, swelling, or bleeding,

Unlike vascular tumors, like hemangiomas that can shrink or even disappear, vascular malformations will require treatment in order to manage the symptoms or resolve the underlying condition.